Neurodiversity: Understanding and celebrating different brain functioning!

Neurodiversity is a concept that allows us to not only transform our understanding of cognitive differences, but also to celebrate the unique strengths and talents which forms our society. Although the medical approach occupies an important place allowing us to better understand, relieve, maintain and treat health related problems and conditions, it remains important to transform our view of certain neurological conditions, such as deficits or disorders to be « corrected ». The neurodiversity approach recognizes all brains as natural variations of the human brain. Let’s find out together what neurodiversity is, why it’s valid, and how we can all contribute to creating a neuroinclusive society.

What is neurodiversity?

The term « neurodiversity » was introduced in the 1990s by Australian sociologist Judy Singer, who is autistic herself. This concept proposes a vision of neurological differences (such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc.) as natural human diversity, in the same way as ethnic, cultural, gender diversity or even biodiversity.

Neurodiversity mainly encompasses:

Autism : A difference in the way we perceive and interact with the world, often characterized by specific interests, sensory sensitivity, and distinct communication approaches.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder): A variation that affects attention, activity regulation, and sometimes impulse control, but also often brings creativity, hyperfocus, and divergent thinking.
Dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other learning disabilities: Differences in the way the brain processes certain information, like in mental imagery (pictures) or sensory processing rathen than words. This cognitive functioning can present challenges in our current academic contexts, but also considerable strengths in problem solving and spatial reasoning (3D imaging) leading to undeniable assets in other areas.
Tourette’s syndrome: Characterized by motor and vocal tics, but often accompanied by remarkable creativity and other distinct cognitive abilities.

Neurodivergence vs. Neurotypical

The neurodiversity movement introduces two important terms:

Neurodivergent : A term that refers to people whose neurological functioning diverges from societal norms. A person with autism, ADHD, or dyslexia is considered neurodivergent.
Neurotypical : A term that refers to people whose neurological functioning corresponds to prevailing expectations or is recognized as the norm of society.

Towards a collaborative medical and social model

Traditionally, neurological differences have been addressed primarily through a medical model that classifies them as « disorders » or « deficits » that need to be « treated » or « corrected. »

The neurodiversity paradigm proposes a social approach:

Recognize the unique strengths brought by neurodivergence, such as detail-thinking, creativity, honesty, systems thinking, or perseverance.
Understand that a « disability » is the relationship between the person’s capability to function in a given environment and is the result of unsuitable or unadapted environments rather than actual neurological differences.
Adapt our environments (schools, workplaces, public spaces) to make them accessible to all types of brain functioning.

Neurodivergent challenges within a neurotypical society

Neurodivergent people face many challenges in a society primarily designed by and for neurotypical people:

Masking : An exhausting process by which neurodivergent people hide their unique and natural traits to match neurotypical social expectations. This approach consists of controlling, or even repressing certain needs related to body movement and sensory needs that affect the nervous system and the ability or inability to participate and engage in conversations. Masking is a coping mechanism that permits the individual to adapt to environments more often designed for neurotypical people. It can be viewed as a survival mechanism but can have devastating long term effects on one’s heath.
Misunderstanding : Behaviours such as stimulation (stimming) or related to specific interests, special sensory needs, or even sensory overload are often misinterpreted.
Barriers to employment : Despite their often-exceptional skills, neurodivergent people face a disproportionate rate of unemployment.
Anxiety and depression : Often a fallout from excess energy spent to hide one’s distinct characteristics (masking) and lack of understanding and social acceptance rather than actual neurological factors related to neurodiversity. Is often due to environments which are not yet adapted to meet the needs of diverse cognitive functioning.

Towards a neuroinclusive society

Creating a society that embraces neurodiversity is beneficial to everyone. Here are some ways you can help:

For employers and educators:

Offer flexible layouts (adapted lighting, quiet spaces, adaptable schedules and the possibility of meeting individual sensory needs);
Valuing the unique strengths and attributes of neurodivergent brains within a team and workplace;
Train staff on neurodiversity and inclusion.

For family members and relatives of neurodivergent people:

Inform themselves and understand their specific experience;
Adapt and normalize different communication styles and methods to individual needs. Conversations, daily routines and game nights might just become easier and more enjoyable;
Defend their rights and access to necessary accommodations, however big or small.

For society in general:

To question our assumptions about what constitutes « normality »;
Celebrate the different ways of thinking, learning and interacting;
Create public spaces that take into account diverse sensory needs and means of communication.

Conclusion: Neurodiversity is a human asset!

Neurodiversity is essential to innovation, resilience, and human evolution. Neurodivergent people have made significant contributions to scientific, artistic, economic and social advances throughout human history.

By honoring its value and its essence, we understand that it has always enriched our society. Each human brain brings color and perspective that gives life to our community. Our ability to think differently is our greatest strength as a species.

At Services ATYPIQUE Louanne Desbiens, we are committed to supporting anyone shaped by neurodiversity and promoting a vision of society where every human being is valued for their unique contribution.

This article is part of a series on neurodiversity proposed by Services ATYPIQUE Louanne Desbiens. To learn more about our consultation, training and intervention services, please contact us.